Nominate yourself for the HOPE awards! According to a press release from Washington, March 5, the distinguished panel of judges to consider applications for the HOPE awards encourages self nominations! That means you have the opportunity to stand for the work you are doing, encourage others to do the same, and gain a step up with awards that could truly benefit your career.

The H.O.P.E. stands for Home Ownership Participation for Everyone. It is an award program which honors people, either as individuals, organizations, or agencies, for their effort in expanding opportunities for affordable housing for minorities. If you have made homeownership for minorities a focus in your career in the past year, you may be considered for this prestigious award.

Increasing the ability for minorities to buy and own real estate expands the market for each and every community. It is a noble and worthwhile pursuit, in its own right. In addition, the HOPE awards provide outstanding opportunities for your career, including capital and notoriety nationwide.

Recipients of the 2008 HOPE awards win $10,000! Winners also get media coverage nationwide and an opportunity to speak at a minority housing symposium. Winners are recognized at the HOPE awards gala in May 2009.

The deadline for applications is December 5, so act now! Sara Weis is this year's contact. She can be reached at 202-383-1013.